How to Select the Perfect Interior Decorator

Finding the best suited interior decorator is a major consideration when building or renovating your home. Before making a final decision, it’s important to ask the right questions because there are many different styles, approaches, and skill sets to consider. Tahn Interiors, a Brisbane Interior Decorator, advises being fully aware of the designer’s process, manner of communication, and costs is essential. This will ensure that you and your interior decorator are in agreement and avoid any future misunderstandings.

Here are some key questions to ask an interior decorator to see if they are a good fit:

Am I able to view your portfolio?

By requesting an interior decorator to present their work early on you can determine the decorator’s aesthetic and depth of experience. “A designer’s portfolio provides an excellent overview of the style of spaces and types of projects the designer has experience in,” says expert interior designer, Tahn Scoon. Analysing their previous work will also reveal whether or not their prior projects align with your goals. Tahn Interiors places an emphasis on displaying a diverse range of our work so that prospective clients may see our versatility and adaptability across a wide range of design concepts.

Can you tell me about your skills & credentials?

It’s important to enquire about skills and credentials as sometimes the use of “interior decorator” and “interior designer” can be deceiving. Anyone can call themselves a designer, but not everyone has the abilities required to deal with the intricate details of designing specific elements such as joinery and problem-solving to create spectacular interior spaces. Once you have confirmed that your decorator is qualified to handle your particular project and has the skills and qualifications required, particularly for technical elements like custom cabinetry or structural changes your project can run smoothly.

Do you pass on savings or discounts?

When working with an interior decorator there are many benefits, one of which is getting trade rates or discounts. Designers frequently get discounted prices on lighting, furniture, décor, and other items. While some decorators use these savings to increase their income, others pass any savings directly on to their clients. It’s a smart move to ascertain if they will keep the difference or share these savings with you. Keep in mind that there are certain clients that might be willing to pay a reduced fee up front in exchange for the designer keeping the savings throughout the project.

How are the fees structured?

There are a number of ways that interior decorators can set up and structure their fees. They might charge by the hour, or charge a fixed fee, or request a percentage of the total cost of the project. To avoid any surprises, it is important to be aware of this before commencing the project. Another consideration is that some firms may include preferred supplier arrangements or percentages of the project cost, our fees are clear and primarily based on time. For example, Tahn Interiors ensure that all of our prices are completely transparent and clients are aware of how the budget is being spent.

What does the design process involve?

Having a comprehensive understanding of the overall process can help you anticipate what to expect at every stage. Ask about the various stages and milestones throughout the project. You will have a better image if you have a thorough project timeline and scope of work, as well as an outline of deliverables. This will also ease your mind and guarantee that there shouldn’t be any misunderstandings. At Tahn Interiors, we take great pride in offering every project a comprehensive project plan.

How do you communicate with clients during a project?

When partnering with an interior decorator, communication is a major consideration. You may want to ask your designer how they will explain or share concepts with you. To share their ideas, some decorators might use style boards, 3D models, or plans. It is best to find out how they prefer to communicate and ask about ways in which you can contribute or give feedback. While some clients may provide written briefs, others may prefer to share images or their own concepts. The process will flow more openly and freely when that information is communicated early on.

Is my project budget suitable?

One of the most key parts of any interior design projects is the budget, and it’s important to be clear about any budget constraints. Often a set budget may not be realistic or inline with some of the requests. A designer will not be able to create a high-end, bespoke aesthetic with an IKEA budget. A professional interior decorator can help you achieve a beautiful look while making the most of your budget. Tahn Interiors takes pleasure in providing expert designs that are aligned to our clients’ budgets without sacrificing elegance or practicality.

Could you explain your design philosophy?

It’s important to comprehend a designer’s philosophy to make sure you are both on the same page. By finding out who you’re partnering with, what they stand for, and how they operate you will set your project up for success. At Tahn Interiors, we strongly believe in ‘beauty in simplicity,’ meaning we create spaces that are light, airy, and timeless. You may determine if your interior decorator is the right fit for your project by learning about their values.

What types of clients do you like to partner with?

As you are interviewing decorators, they will likely be analysing you as well. To determine if a decorator is passionate about your project and your personalities will work well together, ask them about their ideal clients. Often when decorators feel like they are on the same page as their clients the project is more successful.

Can you explain the project timeline?

Unexpected delays may be expensive as well as unpleasant, so it’s a great idea to ask your interior decorator how they handle project timeframes. A comprehensive timeline with key milestones and completion dates can be shared up front by certain decorators. It is also important to ask about their approach to handling delays in unforeseen circumstances. Timeliness needs to be communicated clearly, to set expectations and maintain project momentum.

Am I involved in the process?

Lastly, find out from the decorator if they anticipate any involvement from you. While some clients want to be less involved, others prefer to be included more. It can be beneficial to know the ins and outs of your project in order to prevent confusion or disappointment down the track. While some decorators might find regular feedback distracting, others might find it insightful. A good working relationship will result from having clear expectations and boundaries in place.

During the consultation process, clients should be as honest and open as possible, according to interior designers like Tahn Interiors, who are renowned for their carefully planned design and stunning spaces. The more information you can provide your decorator up front, the more prepared they will be to create a design that fits your requests and represents your style.